Tips for Effective Online Facilitation

By Harry Belch

The power point by Belch mentioned similar strategies a facilitator may use to help facilitate an online learning community as discussed by Palloff and Pratt. Palloff and Pratt discuss important roles both instructors and participants play when they partake in an online learning course. One of the main things Palloff and Pratt stress is the role of the online instructor, “his or her role is changed and no longer the central focus of instruction, rather a source of information and knowledge in a facilitative role that allows learners to work together to explore course content with one another” (Palloff and Pratt, 2007, pg. 105). In an online learning environment instructors move away from lecture based instruction towards one that is collaborative and learner instructed rather than “instructor-focused” (2007, pg. 105).

Belch agrees it is essential to establish social presence, create a “friendly, approachable atmosphere” and it is a good idea as a facilitator to send an “introductory email to everyone beforehand to create a warm environment” (Belch, 2006). Belch states it is ideal if one can create a relaxed atmosphere where people feel comfortable with one another. Palloff and Pratt suggest creating a “café” or a community space where participants can go to “let their hair down” (2007, pg. 113). Similar to Palloff and Pratt, Belch suggests the facilitator participates and provides feedback on the discussions but to “be the facilitator, not the ‘know it all, allow others to be the ‘expert’ and provide leading questions when appropriate” (2006). I really liked the examples Belch provides when communicating with participants, either for a job well done or as a means to check in on why someone isn’t participating. Palloff and Pratt mention the importance of this as well and the need it has to keep the online learning community flowing. I think Palloff and Pratt, along with Belch have created a great list of ideas for promoting a lasting online learning community and I know I would certainly include these in mine, if I created one!